Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- -
A VALVE DEVICE
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to Australia Provisional
Patent
Application No 2018900783 filed on 9 March 2018, the disclosure of which is
herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to a valve device. In particular, the
invention relates, but
is not limited, to a valve device in the form of a piston for a thermostatic
mixing valve. The
invention also relates to a valve incorporating the valve device and a method
for operating
the valve.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0003] Reference to background art herein is not to be construed as an
admission
that such art constitutes common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere.
[0004] A thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) is a valve associated with
blending hot
water with cold water to achieve a substantially constant temperature.
[0005] Many TMVs use a wax thermostat element, coupled to a piston, for
regulating
temperature. Normally, an upper and lower face of the piston is positioned to
allow
separate gaps to be formed between respective sealing surfaces in the TMV. In
response
to the thermostatic element being exposed to cold water, the thermostatic
element shrinks
and moves towards one of the sealing surfaces. This restricts the flow of cold
water
entering the TMV. Similarly, in response to the thermostatic element being
exposed to hot
water, the thermostatic element expands and moves towards another sealing
surface.
This restricts the flow of hot water entering the TMV.
[0006] As a result of the abovementioned movement of the thermostatic
element and
piston, the TMV is able to maintain a substantially constant outlet
temperature (within a
few degrees). In order to set the constant outlet temperature a spindle is
adjusted. The
spindle sets a position of the element and piston at a specific height under
stable inlet
conditions. In response to the spindle moving in a first direction (i.e.
towards the hot inlet
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 2 -
gap), the stable temperature will be relatively colder, and conversely if the
spindle is
moved in an opposite direction, the stable temperature will be hotter.
[0007] In designing TMVs there are, amongst other things, two key
performance
aspects in the form of i) the pressure drop across the valve; and ii) the
thermostatic
performance of the valve (i.e. how accurate the valve maintains a constant
temperature
outlet). Reducing the pressure drop across the TMV allows, for example, higher
pressure
showers and, in a system where a pump is used, a less expensive pump may
achieve a
predetermined flow rate. Maintaining an outlet temperature within 0.5 C is
also preferable
to avoid other associated performance and safety issues.
[0008] It will be appreciated that for a given design, there is a trade-off
between the
pressure drop across the valve and the thermostatic performance. Typically, it
is possible
to improve the thermostatic performance, but this results in a more
restrictive valve, and
vice versa.
[0009] With the above in mind, as a given thermostatic element will move a
set
distance for a specific change in temperature, and that movement is
responsible for
opening or closing the inlet gaps, then it can be appreciated that the size of
these inlet
gaps (in an axial direction) is a factor that determines the thermostatic
performance. Large
inlet gaps will have poorer thermostatic performance than small gaps as a
larger amount
of travel of the thermostatic element is required to change the temperature.
[0010] Improved thermostatic performance can therefore be achieved by
having
smaller inlet gaps above and below the piston. That being said, reducing the
size of these
inlets will also cause the valve to be more restrictive to fluid flow. In this
way, the
relationship between the pressure drop across the valve and thermostatic
performance
can be understood.
[0011] In an attempt to improve thermostatic performance, thermostatic
elements
have been developed to allow further movement for a given change in
temperature.
However, there are a number of issues associated with this potential design
choice. First,
unless there are excessive costs in choosing a higher performing thermostatic
element,
designers typically choose the best performing element that matches the TMV in
the first
instance. Secondly, an element that has more travel will typically require
more material to
drive its movement. This additional material will require more heat input for
a given change
in temperature, so while the element will move further, it will also react
slower. The speed
of adjustment is often a crucial requirement for thermostatic performance
testing.
[0012] Separately, in attempts to reduce the pressure drop across a TMV,
larger
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 3 -
diameter pistons have been considered. This allows the inlet gap areas to be
increased
without changing the distance required for the thermostat element to shut off
or open up
the inlets. This means that the valve will be less restrictive to flow without
affecting the
thermostatic performance. Although, as the piston diameter is increased so too
is the
diameter of the valve body and other associated components. This results in
increased
cost for the TMV.
[0013] The present inventors have developed an improved device for a
thermostatic
mixing valve.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0014] In one form, the invention resides in a valve device including:
a first wall configured to be received by a housing;
a second wall located in an inboard direction of the first wall; and
a connecting member connecting the first wall to the second wall,
wherein at least the second wall has an aperture therethrough in the inboard
direction.
[0015] The valve device provides, amongst other things, an increase in
inlet area via
the aperture without affecting the distance required for a thermostatic
element to adjust
the flow through inlets of a valve. This is achieved without the valve device
or valve
housing increasing in size and results in a valve design with improved
thermostatic
performance and less flow restriction, without significant cost penalties.
[0016] In an embodiment, a central axis extends substantially parallel to
the first wall
and/or the second wall and transversely to the inboard direction.
[0017] In an embodiment, the central axis extends between the ends of the
first wall
and the second wall. The ends are normally the upper end and lower end of the
valve
device.
[0018] In an embodiment, end faces of the first wall and/or second wall
extend in the
inboard direction.
[0019] In an embodiment, at least part of a first passage is located
between the first
wall and the second wall.
[0020] In an embodiment, the first passage extends substantially transverse
to the
inboard direction.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 4 -
[0021] In an embodiment, the first passage may also extend transversely to
the
aperture.
[0022] In an embodiment, the first passage extends along the first wall and
the
second wall around the connecting member.
[0023] In an embodiment, the passage has one or more openings, adjacent the
ends
of the walls, extending transversely to the inboard direction.
[0024] In an embodiment, the first wall and/or the second wall are annular.
[0025] In an embodiment, the central axis defines the centre point for the
circular arc
of the first wall and/or the second wall.
[0026] In an embodiment, the aperture may extend through the first wall. In
a further
form, separate holes may form part of the aperture.
[0027] In an embodiment, the second wall includes a plurality of apertures
extending
therethrough in the inboard direction.
[0028] In an embodiment, the connecting member extends substantially in the
inboard direction.
[0029] In an embodiment, the connecting members include the aperture
therethrough.
[0030] In an embodiment, the valve device includes an interior member. In
an
embodiment, the interior member is configured to receive a force from a
thermostatic
element and/or spring.
[0031] In an embodiment, the interior member is substantially circular.
[0032] In an embodiment, the interior member is connected to the second
wall with
one or more connecting parts.
[0033] In an embodiment, a second passage extends along the second wall and
the
interior member.
[0034] In an embodiment, the interior member includes a base portion that
is
configured to engage with the thermostatic element.
[0035] In an embodiment, the valve device is in the form of a piston.
[0036] In an embodiment, the valve device includes a flow separator.
[0037] In an embodiment, the flow separator is located between the second
wall and
the interior member.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 5 -
[0038] In an embodiment, the flow separator separates the second passage
into a
first portion and a second portion.
[0039] In another form, the invention resides in a valve including:
a housing having a first fluid inlet, a second fluid inlet and an outlet;
a valve device biased by a spring, the valve device including:
a first wall;
a second wall located in an inboard direction of the first wall; and
a connecting member connecting the first wall to the second wall;
and
a thermostatic element configured to provide a force to the valve device in
order to provide movement thereof,
wherein at least the second wall has an aperture therethrough in the inboard
direction and movement of the valve device controls fluid flow from the first
fluid inlet or
the second fluid inlet, through the aperture, to the outlet.
[0040] In an embodiment, the aperture extends in a transverse direction to
an axis of
the valve. In an embodiment, the axis of the valve is aligned with the
thermostatic element.
[0041] In an embodiment, the aperture is configured to be in fluid
communication with
the first fluid inlet whilst a further aperture extending through the second
wall in the
inboard direction is configured to be in fluid communication with the second
fluid inlet.
[0042] In an embodiment, movement of the valve device controls fluid flow
from:
the first fluid inlet, through the aperture configured to be in fluid
communication
with the first fluid inlet, to the outlet; and
the second fluid inlet, through the further aperture configured to be in fluid
communication with the second fluid inlet, to the outlet.
[0043] In an embodiment, the flow separator substantially prevents fluid
moving
between the first portion and the second portion.
[0044] In an embodiment, the aperture is in fluid communication with the
first portion
and first fluid inlet; and another aperture is in fluid communication with the
second portion
and second fluid inlet.
[0045] In an embodiment, the valve includes a setting member.
[0046] In an embodiment, the setting member is connected to the valve
device.
[0047] In an embodiment, the setting member is connected to the valve
device via
one or more pegs.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 6 -
[0048] In an embodiment, the one or more pegs are retained on the top
and/or
bottom of the device.
[0049] In an embodiment, the one or more pegs includes two pegs that are
located
on opposite sides of the one or more openings.
[0050] In an embodiment, the valve includes one or more seat members.
[0051] In an embodiment, the one or more seat members are separate
components
to the housing.
[0052] In an embodiment, the one or more seat members include a seating
portion
that is configured to cover the first passage of the valve device.
[0053] In an embodiment, in response to the first wall and second wall of
the device
engaging with the seating portion, fluid flow through the first inlet or
second inlet to the
outlet is substantially prevented.
[0054] In an embodiment, the one or more seat members includes one or more
apertures to provide a fluid path to the valve device.
[0055] In an embodiment, the one or more apertures are located inboard from
the
seating portion of the one or more seat members.
[0056] In an embodiment, the one or more apertures may be located closer to
the
longitudinal axis of the valve in comparison to the first passage of the valve
device.
[0057] In an embodiment, the one or more seat members include an extending
member. The extending member may extend from a location near the one or more
apertures.
[0058] In an embodiment, the extending member is configured to assist in
channelling
fluid flow through the one or more apertures to the first passage of the valve
device.
[0059] In an embodiment, the extending member includes a sealing portion
that is
configured to assist in sealing against the valve device.
[0060] In an embodiment, the valve device is configured to rotatably engage
the one
or more seat members.
[0061] In an embodiment, the valve device rotably engages the one or more
seat
members via the one or more pegs.
[0062] In an embodiment, the valve includes an adjustment member. The
adjustment
member may be in the form of a spindle.
[0063] In an embodiment, the adjustment member is releasably engaged with
the one
or more seat members.
[0064] In an embodiment, the one or more seat members include one or more
legs
that are configured to engage the adjustment member.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 7 -
[0065] In an embodiment, the adjustment member includes a fastening portion
that is
configured to be releasably fasten to the housing.
[0066] In an embodiment, the adjustment member is configured to engage with
a
portion of the thermostatic element.
[0067] In an embodiment, a portion of the thermostatic element extends
through the
adjustment member.
[0068] In an embodiment, in response to rotating at least part of the
setting member,
the distance between the thermostatic element and valve device is adjusted via
turning the
adjustment member.
[0069] In an embodiment, the valve includes more than one thermostatic
element.
[0070] In another form the invention resides in a valve including:
a housing having a first fluid inlet, a second fluid inlet and an outlet;
a setting member;
a device biased by a spring, the device being connected to the setting
member;
a seat member that engages with the device and an adjustment member; and
a thermostatic element configured to apply a force on the device in order to
provide movement thereof, movement of the device controlling fluid flow from
the first fluid
inlet and the second fluid inlet to the outlet,
wherein rotating the setting member adjusts the distance between the
thermostatic element and device, via the seat member and the adjustment
member, in
order to set a predetermined temperature.
[0071] In an embodiment, the valve is herein as described.
[0072] In another form the invention resides in a method of regulating
temperature in
a valve, the method including the steps of:
providing fluid to a first fluid inlet;
providing fluid to a second fluid inlet;
allowing the fluid from the first fluid inlet to flow past a first wall of a
valve
device and through a first aperture of a second wall of the valve device, the
first aperture
extending through the second wall in an inboard direction between the first
wall and the
second wall;
allowing the fluid from the second fluid inlet to flow past the first wall and
through a second aperture of the second wall, the second aperture extending in
the
inboard direction; and
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 8 -
moving the device in order to adjust the fluid flow from the first fluid inlet
and
the second fluid inlet, past the valve device, to substantially achieve a
predetermined fluid
temperature from an outlet.
[0073] In an embodiment, the method further includes allowing the fluid
from the first
inlet and/or second inlet to proceed between the valve device and one or more
seat
members.
[0074] In an embodiment, the fluid moves past one or more apertures of the
one or
more seat members to a passage defined between the first wall and the second
wall.
[0075] In an embodiment, the fluid moves past the second wall in order to
enter the
passage. The fluid may be directed in an outboard direction to move past the
one or more
apertures to the passage.
[0076] In an embodiment, the method further includes the step of rotating a
setting
member in order adjust the distance between a thermostatic element and the
valve
device.
[0077] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become
apparent from the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0078] By way of example only, preferred embodiments of the invention will
be
described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures,
wherein:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a (thermostatic mixing) valve,
according to
an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 illustrates a cross sectional view of the thermostatic mixing valve
illustrated in figure 1;
Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of the thermostatic mixing valve
illustrated in
figure 1;
Figure 4 illustrates an upper perspective view of a (valve) device in the form
of a
piston, shown in the thermostatic mixing valve of figure 1, according to an
embodiment of
the invention;
Figure 5 illustrates a lower perspective view of the piston shown in Figure 4;
Figure 6 illustrates a top view of the piston shown in Figure 4;
Figure 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of the piston shown in Figure 4;
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 9 -
Figure 8 illustrates a top view of the thermostatic mixing valve illustrated
in Figure
1;
Figure 9 illustrates a cross sectional view of the thermostatic mixing valve,
during
use, along line A-A illustrated in Figure 8;
Figure 10 illustrates a cross sectional view of the thermostatic mixing valve,
during
use, along line B-B illustrated in Figure 8;
Figure 11 illustrates a cross sectional view of the thermostatic mixing valve,
during
use, along line C-C illustrated in Figure 8;
Figure 12 illustrates a cross sectional view of a (thermostatic mixing) valve,
according to a further embodiment of the invention;
Figure 13 illustrates a cross sectional view of a (thermostatic mixing) valve,
according to another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 14 illustrates a top view of a (valve) device in the form of a piston,
shown in
the thermostatic mixing valve of figure 13, according to a further embodiment
of the
invention;
Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of the piston shown in Figure 14;
Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of a seat member, shown in the
thermostatic mixing valve of Figure 13, according to an embodiment of the
invention;
Figure 17 illustrates a further perspective view of the seat shown in Figure
16;
Figure 18 illustrates a perspective view of a further seat member, shown in
the
thermostatic mixing valve of Figure 13, according to an embodiment of the
invention;
Figure 19 illustrates a further perspective view of the seat member shown in
Figure 18;
Figure 20 illustrates a cross sectional view of the thermostatic mixing valve,
shown
in Figure 13, during use; and
Figure 21 illustrates a perspective sectional view of the thermostatic mixing
valve,
shown in Figure 13 and Figure 20, during use.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0079] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a thermostatic mixing valve 10a,
according to an
embodiment of the invention. The valve 10a includes a housing 100a, a valve
device in
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 10 -
the form of piston 200a, a return spring 300a, a setting member 400a, a seat
member
500a, an adjustment member 600a, a thermostatic element 700a, an overtravel
spring
800a, a seat 900a and an outlet fitting 1000.
[0080] As shown further in Figure 2, the housing 100a includes a first
inlet 110a, a
second inlet 120a and an outlet 130a. The first inlet 110a and second inlet
120a are
symmetrically located about an axial axis 12. The axis 12 extends
longitudinally along the
valve 10a. The first inlet 110a and the second inlet 120a taper towards the
piston 200a.
The first inlet 110a is typically connected to a relative cold fluid source
whilst the second
inlet 120a is normally connected to a relative hot fluid source. As outlined
below, the
housing 100a is configured to receive the components above (i.e. the piston
200a, return
spring 300a etc.) therein.
[0081] The piston 200a, which is cylindrical in this embodiment, is
illustrated in detail
in Figures 2 to 7. As shown in Figure 2, the piston 200a is located adjacent
the first inlet
110a and the second inlet 120a. The first inlet 110a leads into a lower
passage that
extends around the valve 10a between the housing 100a and piston 200a.
Similarly, the
second inlet 120a leads into an upper passage that extends around the valve
10a
between the housing 100a and piston 200a. The upper and lower passages are
fluidly
sealed from each other.
[0082] The piston 200a includes a first wall 210a, a second wall 220a and
an interior
member 230a. The walls 210a, 220a have a top face, bottom face and an inner
and outer
circular side face. The second wall 220a is located inboard of the first wall
210a and, as
such, the first wall 210a is an outer wall relative to the (inner) second wall
220a. In this
regard, an inboard direction of the piston 200a is established from the first
wall 210a
towards the inner second wall 220a. That is, the inboard direction moves
towards the axis
12. Connecting members 202a connect the first wall 210a to the second wall
220a. The
connecting members 202a are located at an upper portion and lower portion of
the piston
200a. As shown further in Figure 6, the upper connecting members 202a are
offset with
respect to the lower connecting members 202a. The connecting members 202a are
substantially evenly spaced around the piston 200a such that they are
symmetrical about
the axial axis 12.
[0083] The connecting members 202a each include an aperture 204a
therethrough.
The apertures 204a extend through the first wall 210a and second wall 220a
such that
outside the first wall 210a is in fluid communication with inboard of the
second wall 220a.
The apertures 204a extend in the inboard direction and substantially
perpendicular to the
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PC
T/AU2019/050209
- 11 -
axial axis 12. In further embodiments, it will be appreciated that the
apertures 204a may
take a variety of shapes and, for example, include one or more additional
inlets/outlet
holes. It will also be appreciated that the apertures 204a may be considered
to extend in
the outboard direction whilst also extending in the inboard direction but, for
clarity and
context, are preferably recited as extending in the inboard direction.
[0084] A first passage 212a separates and is formed between the first wall
210a and
second wall 220a. Accordingly, as would be appreciated by a person skilled in
the art, the
first passage 212a is substantially cylindrical in this embodiment and extends
around the
connecting members 202a. The first passage 212a extends along the first wall
210a and
second wall 220a in a direction that is substantially parallel with the axial
axis 12.
[0085] The first passage 212a includes a plurality of openings 214a in the
top and the
bottom of the piston 200a. The openings 214a in the top of the piston 200a are
offset with
respect to the openings 214a in the bottom of the piston 200a. The plurality
of openings
214a are substantially in the form of slots and located at equal distance
around the piston
200a. Adjacent the openings 214a are holes 216a. The holes 216a extend partly
through
the connecting members 202a but not into the apertures 204a.
[0086] A second passage 222a separates the second wall 220a and the
interior
member 230a. Connecting ribs 224a connect the second wall 220a to the interior
member
230a. On this basis, similar to the above, it would be appreciated that the
second passage
222a is substantially cylindrical in this embodiment and extends around the
connecting
ribs 224a. The second passage 222a extends along the second wall 220a and the
interior
member 230a in a direction that is substantially parallel with the axial axis
12.
[0087] A flow separator 240a separates the second passage 222a into a first
(lower)
portion and a second (upper) portion. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the flow
separator
240a includes a separating portion 242a that is substantially 'S shape. The
'S' shape
defines two hollows that are configured to receive a seal therein. The flow
separator 240a
also includes a plurality of protrusions 244a extending from the separating
portion 242a.
The protrusions 244a assist in locating the flow separator 240a in the second
passage
222a. For ease of reference, the flow separator is not shown in Figures 4 to 7
associated
with the piston 200a.
[0088] The interior member 230a includes a third passage 232a therethrough.
The
interior member 230a is substantially hollow due to the third passage 232a.
The interior
member 230a includes a base portion that is configured to receive the return
spring 300a
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 12 -
thereon. An extension portion 250a extends from the base portion. The
extension portion
250a extends below the first wall 210a and the second wall 220a.
[0089] The return spring 300a, which is in the form of a coil spring in
this
embodiment, extends between the piston 200a and the setting member 400a. This
in turn
biases the piston 200a along the axial axis 12 away from the setting member
400a. The
setting member 400a includes a recess to receive the return spring 300a
therein. With this
in mind, the setting member 400a is also connected to the piston 200a via pegs
201. The
pegs 201 extend between the holes 216a in the piston 200a and holes in the
setting
member 400a. Sufficient space exists between the holes 216a in the piston and
holes in
the setting member 400a to allow the piston 200a to move to a position where
it
substantially seals against the setting member 400a. This is further outlined
below.
[0090] The setting member 400a also includes a connector 410a for assisting
to
rotate the setting member 400a with, amongst other things, a socket wrench. In
response
to rotating the setting member 400a, the piston 200a is also configured to
rotate via the
pegs 201. The setting member 400a is retained in the housing 100a via a clip
420a.
[0091] Seat member 500a is located adjacent to the piston 200a. That is,
the seat
member 500a is located below the piston 200a and sits on a shoulder formed in
the
housing 100a. The seat member 500a includes a seating portion 510a and a
plurality of
legs 520a extending therefrom. The seating portion 510a is substantially
circular and
includes a plurality of apertures thereth rough. The plurality of apertures
are configured to
engage with the pegs 201 that are extending below the piston 200a.
Furthermore, the
seating portion 510a is configured to seal against the piston 200a when there
is contact
therebetween. The legs 520a extend below the seating portion 510a and are
configured to
engage with the adjustment member 600a.
[0092] The adjustment member 600a includes a plurality of protrusions 610.
The
protrusions 610a are located along an inner wall of the adjustment member
600a. The
protrusions 610a are configured to engage with the legs 520a of the seat
member 500a.
The adjustment member 600a also includes a fastening portion 620a. The
fastening
portion 620a is in the form of a thread in this embodiment. The fastening
portion 620a is
configured to releasably fix to an inner wall of the housing 100a.
[0093] The adjustment member 600a is also configured to receive the
thermostatic
element 700a. The thermostatic element 700a engages with a shoulder formed
within the
adjustment member 600a. The thermostatic element 700a also includes a pin 710a
that,
with the assistance of a wax portion, is configured to move and engage with
the extension
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 13 -
portion 250a of the piston 200a. Movement of the pin 710a, whilst engaged with
the
extension portion 250a, adjusts the position of the piston 200a, as further
outlined below.
The thermostatic element 700a is urged towards the shoulder formed within the
adjustment member 600a via the overtravel spring 800a. The overtravel spring
800a sits
on the seat 900a that is retained on a further shoulder in the housing 100a.
The outlet
fitting 1000 is connected to the lower end of the housing 100a.
[0094] Figures 9 to 11 illustrate different cross sectional views of the
valve 10a,
during use, with the return spring 300a removed for ease of reference. As
shown in at
least Figure 9, a relatively cold fluid (e.g. approximately ambient
temperature or
thereabouts) enters the first fluid inlet 110a of the housing 100a. A
relatively hot fluid (e.g.
approximately 60 to 90 degrees) also enters the second fluid inlet 120a of the
housing
100a. In the position shown in Figures 9 to 11, the relatively cold and hot
fluid proceed
through the piston 200a and are mixed to form a predetermined fluid
temperature that
exits the outlet 130a. This is outlined further below.
[0095] With the position of the piston 200a shown in Figures 9 to 11, the
relatively
cold fluid proceeds through the first fluid inlet 110a and is directed along a
number of
paths that allow it to exit towards the outlet 130a. Some relatively cold
fluid is directed
directly through a gap between the first wall 210a of the piston 200a and the
seat member
500a. This fluid then mixes with the relatively hot fluid and exits the outlet
130a.
[0096] Some further relatively cold fluid is i) directed around the passage
between the
lower part of the first wall 110a and the housing 100a; and then ii) directed
out of the gap
between the first wall 210a of the piston 200a and the seat member 500a.
Additional
relatively cold fluid is also directed through the plurality of apertures
204a, via the passage
between the lower part of the first wall 110a and the housing 100a, and then
into the lower
portion of the second passage 222a. From the lower portion of the second
passage 222a,
the relatively cold fluid may proceed toward the outlet 130a via i) a gap
between the
second wall 220a and the seat member 500a; or ii) a gap between the interior
member
230a and the seat member 500a.
[0097] Similar to the above, the relatively hot fluid proceeds through the
second inlet
120a and is directed along a number of paths that allow it to exit towards the
outlet 130a.
Some relatively hot fluid is directed towards a gap between the first wall
210a and the
setting member 400a. This fluid then flows down the first passage 212a to exit
the outlet
130a whilst being mixed with the relatively cold fluid.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 14 -
[0098] Some further relatively hot fluid is i) directed around the passage
between the
upper part of the first wall 110a and the housing 100a; ii) through the gap
between the first
wall 210a and the setting member 400a; and then iii) down the first passage
212a to exit
the outlet 130a. Additional relatively hot fluid is also directed through the
plurality of
apertures 204a, via the passage between the upper part of the first wall 110a
and the
housing 100a, and then into an upper portion of the second passage 222a. From
the
upper portion of the second passage 222a, the relatively hot fluid may proceed
to the
outlet 130a via i) moving up and into the first passage 212a; or ii) moving up
and into the
third passage 232a. This fluid then flows down the second or third passage
222a, 232a to
exit the outlet 130a whilst being mixed with the relatively cold fluid.
[0099] In response to a predetermined outlet temperature not being
maintained by the
valve 10a, the valve 10a is configured to adjust the flow of the relatively
hot fluid and cold
fluid leaving the outlet 130a via moving the piston 200a. The piston 200a is
moved by the
pin 710a engaging/disengaging the extension portion 250. By way of example, in
response to the outlet temperature being above the predetermined outlet
temperature, the
wax portion in the thermostatic element grows shifting the pin 710a upwards.
This in turn
shifts the piston 200a upwards and restricts the amount of relatively hot
fluid entering the
valve 10a until the predetermined outlet temperature is again substantially
reached.
[00100] To set the predetermined outlet temperature, the adjustment member
600a is
adjusted to a location. To adjust the adjustment member 600a, the setting
member 400a
is rotated. This in turn rotates the piston 200a, via the pegs 201, which in
turn rotates the
seat member 500a, via the pegs 201. As the seat member 500a rotates, the
adjustment
member 600a is caused to rotate through its engagement with the legs 520a. As
the
adjustment member 600a is rotated, it moves a direction along the axial axis
12 due to the
fastening portion 620a.
[00101] Figure 12 illustrates a cross sectional view of a thermostatic
mixing valve 10b,
according to a further embodiment of the invention. With this in mind, in this
disclosure the
use of a reference numeral followed by a lower case letter indicates
alternative
embodiments of a general element identified by the reference numeral. Thus for
example
the thermostatic mixing valve 10a is similar to but not identical to the
thermostatic mixing
valve 10b. Further, references to an element identified only by the numeral
refer to all
embodiments of that element. Thus for example a reference to the thermostatic
mixing
valve 10 is intended to include both the valve 10a and the valve 10b.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 15 -
[00102] Similar to the valve 10a, the valve 10b includes a housing 100b, a
valve device
in the form of piston 200b, a return spring 300b, a cap 401b, a seat member
500b, an
adjustment member 600b, two thermostatic elements 700b and an overtravel
spring 800b.
[00103] Notably, as a person skilled in the art would appreciate, the
thermostatic
elements 700b are co-axially located along the axial axis 12 in the valve 10b.
This doubles
the element 700b travel, when subjected to changes in temperature, which in
turn may be
used to assist in fulfilling high flow requirements as the piston 200b to seat
gap may be
larger.
[00104] In addition, the adjustment member 600b in the valve 10b has been
rearranged, in comparison to the valve 10a, and is located above the piston
200b and
adjacent to the setting member 400b. The piston 200b has also been arranged to
receive
the return spring 300b between the interior member 230b and the flow separator
240b.
[00105] The piston 200b, similar to the piston 200a, includes a plurality
of apertures
204b extending between the first wall 210b and the second wall 220b. The
piston 200b
also includes a first passage 212b, a second passage 222b and a third passage
232b,
similar to the piston 200a. With this in mind, the valve 10b works
substantially in the same
manner as valve 10a in controlling the flow of fluid through the apertures
204b, from their
respective inlet, to the outlet of the housing 100b. In particular, as the
piston 200b moves
between the seat member 500b and setting member 400b, the flow of water
through the
multiple paths in the piston 200b is regulated to achieve a substantially
constant
predetermined outlet temperature.
[00106] In comparison to the valve 10a, the predetermined outlet
temperature in the
valve 10a is set by directly rotating the adjustment member 600b. This sets a
distance
between the two thermostatic elements 700b and the piston 200a.
[00107] Figure 13 illustrates a cross sectional view of a valve 10c,
according to another
embodiment of the invention. The valve 10c includes a housing 100c, a valve
device in the
form of piston 200c, a return spring 300c, a setting member 400c, a cold seat
member
500c, a hot seat member 550c, an adjustment member 600c, thermostatic elements
700c,
an overtravel spring 800a and an adjusting seat 900c.
[00108] The housing 100c includes a first inlet 110c, a second inlet 120c
and an outlet
130c. An axial axis 12 extends along the housing 100c. As outlined further
below, the
housing 100a is configured to receive the components above (i.e. the piston
200c, return
spring 300c etc.) therein and some components of the valve 10c are configured
to move
along or rotate around the axis 12.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 16 -
[00109] The piston 200c is illustrated in further detail in Figures 14 and
15. The piston
200c is formed from stainless steel in this embodiment and is positioned in
the housing
100c adjacent a seal member. The seal member assists in separating fluid from
the first
inlet 110c and the second inlet 120c to opposite ends of the piston 200c. The
piston 200c
includes a first wall 210c that is connected to a second wall 220c by
connecting members
202c. The first wall 210c and the second wall 220c are annular and define a
central axis
201c therethrough. The end face of the first wall 210c and second wall 220c
extend
transversely to the central axis 202. As outlined further below, incoming
fluid flow is
directed around the ends of the first wall 210c and the second wall 220c to
reduce the
pressure drop of the valve 10c.
[00110] The second wall 220c is located in an inboard direction of the
first wall 210c.
That is, the second wall 220c is located closer to the central axis 201c
extending
therethrough in comparison to the first wall 210c. In this regard, the
connecting member
202c separates the first wall 210c and the second wall 220c to form a first
passage 212c
through the piston 200c in a direction substantially parallel with the axis
201c (or axis 12).
[00111] To assist in moving fluid through the valve 10c, the second wall
220c of the
piston 200c includes a plurality of apertures 204c. The apertures 204c extend
from the
outer circular face of the second wall 220c to the inner circular face of the
second wall
220c. The plurality of apertures 204c are in the form of slots. The apertures
204c are
symmetrically located on either side of the second wall 220c. In this regard,
an even
number of apertures 204c are normally included in the second wall 220c.
[00112] The second wall 220c is connected to an interior member 230c via
connecting
ribs 224c. As evident in Figure 14, the connecting ribs 224 are substantially
aligned with
the connecting members 202c. A second passage 222c is located between the
second
wall 220c and the interior member 230c. The second passage 222c extends
substantially
parallel to the central axis 201c. In addition, the interior member 230c is
substantially
circular in this embodiment. The interior member 230c is also configured to
receive part of
the adjusting seat 900c, as further outlined below. Moreover, the interior
member 230c is
configured to receive a force from the return spring 300c in order to assist
in biasing the
piston 200c into a predetermined position.
[00113] Figures 16 and 17 illustrate the cold seat member 500 in this
embodiment. In
this regard, it is noted that the hot and cold seat member terminology is used
to distinguish
one element from the other in this description and, as would be appreciated by
a person
skilled in the art, the function of the seat members 500c, 550c in assisting
the regulation of
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 17 -
hot and/or cold fluid may be interchanged. The cold seat member 500 is formed
from
stainless steel in this embodiment and includes a seating portion 510c. The
seating
portion 510c is substantially circular and planar in this embodiment. The
seating portion
510c is configured to engage with an end of the piston 200c in order to assist
in regulating
(cold) fluid through the valve 10c.
[00114] Adjacent the seating portion 510c is a plurality of apertures 512c.
The
apertures 512c provide an opening that is located inboard of the second wall
220c of the
piston 200c. A protrusion 514c is also located adjacent the apertures 512c and
extends in
one direction away from the seating portion 510c. The protrusion 514c defines
an opening
516c that is configured to receive part of the cover 404c.
[00115] An extending member 518c extends from a position near the apertures
512c in
a direction that is opposite to the protrusion 514c. The extending member 518c
is
somewhat in the form of an 'L' shape in this embodiment. Part of the extending
member
518c is projected over the apertures 512c and provides a channel towards an
end of the
piston 200c. That is, part of the extending member 518c is directed towards
the second
wall 220c to channel fluid towards the first passage 212c. Furthermore, the
extending
member 518c assists in sealing an end of the second passage 222c of the piston
200c.
Moreover, an end of the extending member 518c includes a sealing part that is
configured
to assist in providing a separate seal between the piston 200c and the cold
seat member
500c. Typically, 0-rings are retained by the sealing part to form a seal with
the piston
200c.
[00116] As noted above, the hot seat member 550c is similar to the cold
seat member
500c. The hot seat member 550c includes a sealing portion 560c and, in the
same
manner as the cold seat member 500c, the sealing portion 560c is configured to
engage
with an end of the piston 200c to assist with regulating (hot) fluid flow
through the valve
10c. Moreover, the hot seat member 550c includes a protrusion 564c that is
configured to
receive part of the adjusting seat 900c. Apertures 562c are located adjacent
to the
protrusion 564c. The apertures 562c are located between the sealing portion
560c and
the extending member 568c. The extending member 568c extends away from the
sealing
portion 560c in a manner that provides a projection over the apertures 562c,
in order to
channel fluid towards an end of the piston 200c. In a similar manner to the
cold seat
member 500c, the extending member 568c assists in providing a seal with the
second wall
220c of the piston 200c with one or more 0-rings. Furthermore, the extending
member
568c assists sealing the second passage 222c of the piston 200c.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
- 18 -
[00117] The adjustment member 600c of the valve 10c is configured to assist
in setting
a predetermined outlet fluid temperature. The adjustment member 600c is
connected to
an adjusting knob 402c and cover 404c of the setting member 400c. In response
to
rotating the adjusting knob 402c, the potential force exerted by the
overtravel spring 800c
on the thermostatic elements 700c is adjusted. This in turn adjusts the
potential force
exerted on the piston 200a as the adjusting seat 900c is configured to
transfer forces from
the thermostatic elements 700c through to the piston 200c. The forces on the
piston 200c
allow the piston 200c to move in order to regulate the flow of fluid from the
outlet 130c at a
predetermined temperature.
[00118] The potential flow of fluid through the valve 10c is illustrated in
figures 20 and
21. It is noted that components of the valve 10c in Figures 20 and 21 have
been removed
for ease of reference. Figures 20 and 21 illustrate the piston 200c settling
in a position
where it does not engage with either seat member 500c, 550c. In this position,
relatively
cold fluid moves through the first inlet 110c towards one end of the piston
200a. The cold
fluid can then take: i) a path between the seating portion 510c and an end of
the first wall
210c to the first passage 212c; or ii) a path along an opposite face to the
seating portion
510c to the apertures 512c where the fluid is able to be channelled between
the seating
portion 510c and an end of the second wall 220c to the first passage 212c.
[00119] In a similar manner, the relatively hot fluid in Figures 20 and 21
moves through
the second inlet 120c towards another end of the piston 200a. The hot fluid
can then take:
i) a path between the seating portion 560c and an opposite end of the first
wall 210c to the
first passage 212c; or ii) a path along an opposite face to the seating
portion 560c to the
apertures 562c where the fluid is able to be channelled between the seating
portion 560c
and an opposite end of the second wall 220c to the first passage 212c.
[00120] As evident in Figures 20 and 21, in the first passage 212c, the hot
and cold
fluid begins to mix and enters through the apertures 204c. Following this, the
mixed fluid
passes the second passage 222c and then exits the piston 200c via the third
passage
232c. The mixed fluid then proceeds to flow over the thermostatic elements
700c to the
outlet 130c. In response to the mixed fluid not being at a predetermined
temperature, at
least part of the thermostatic elements 700b are configured to move. This
movement in
turn shifts the adjusting seat 900c. This allows the piston 200c to be
repositioned in order
to substantially achieve the predetermined outlet temperature.
[00121] With the above in mind, the valves 10 provide, amongst other
things, an
increase in inlet area without affecting the distance required for the
thermostatic elements
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453 PCT/AU2019/050209
-19-
700 to adjust the flow through the first and second inlets 110, 120. This is
achieved
without the piston 200 or housing 100 increasing in size and results in a
valve design with
improved thermostatic performance and less flow restriction, without
significant cost
penalties.
[00122] To further elaborate, a key benefit of the valves 10 in the present
invention is a
piston 200 that, in addition to the traditional inlet area determined by the
piston gap and
diameter, has pathways to provide additional inlet area(s). These inlets
increase the flow
area coming into the valves 10 without affecting the distance required for the
element 700
to open and close the inlets 110, 120.
[00123] Furthermore, the design of the valves 10 is such that the majority
of the fluid
flowing through the valve 10 is channelled through one or more of the passages
212, 222,
232 that are located perpendicular to the inlets 110, 120. Doing this results
in fluid of a
constant temperature surrounding the element 700 during operation, which may
alleviate
oscillation and other performance issues.
[00124] Moreover, the adjustment member 600 in the present invention i)
moves the
element 700 out of the centre of the piston 200, providing the room required
for the
concentric inlet 110, 120 design; and ii) provides a low profile setting
member 400 which
saves a significant amount of cost.
[00125] In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left
and right, top and
bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action
from another
element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or
order. Where the context permits, reference to an integer or a component or
step (or the
like) is not to be interpreted as being limited to only one of that integer,
component, or
step, but rather could be one or more of that integer, component, or step etc.
[00126] The above description of various embodiments of the present
invention is
provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related
art. It is not
intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed
embodiment. As
mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention
will be
apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while
some
alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments
will be
apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art.
The invention is
intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the
present invention
that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the
spirit and
scope of the above described invention.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 20 -
[00127] In this
specification, the terms 'comprises', 'comprising', 'includes', 'including',
or similar terms are intended to mean a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a
method,
system or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include those
elements
solely, but may well include other elements not listed.
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/A1J2019/050209
- 21 -
Part Items:
Embodiment #1 Embodiment #2 Embodiment #3
Valve ¨ 10a Valve - 10b Valve ¨ 10c
Housing - 100a Housing - 100b Housing ¨ 100c
First Inlet - 110a First Inlet ¨ 110c
Second Inlet 120a Second Inlet 120c
Outlet - 130a Outlet ¨ 130c
Piston ¨ 200a Piston - 200b Piston ¨ 200c
Pegs ¨201 Aperture - 204b Central Axis ¨ 201c
Connecting members- First Wall - 210b Connecting members -
202a First Passage 212b 202c
Aperture ¨ 204a Second Wall - 220b Aperture ¨ 204c
First Wall - 210a Second Passage - 222b First Wall ¨ 210c
First Passage - 212a Third Passage - 232b First Passage 212c
Openings - 214a Second Wall ¨ 220c
Holes - 216a Second Passage ¨ 222c
Second Wall - 220a Connecting Ribs ¨ 224c
Second Passage - 222a Interior Member ¨ 230c
Connecting Ribs - 224a Third Passage ¨ 232c
Interior Member - 230a
Flow Separator - 240a
Separating Portion - 242a
Protrusions - 244a
Third Passage - 232a
Extension Portion - 250a
Return Spring ¨ 300a Return Spring - 300b Return Spring ¨ 300c
Setting member ¨ 400a Cap - 401b Setting member ¨ 400c
Connector - 410a Adjusting Knob ¨ 402c
Clip - 420a Cover ¨ 404c
Seat Member¨ 500a Seat Member¨ 500b Cold Seat Member¨
Seating Portion - 510a 500c
Legs - 520a Seating Portion ¨ 510c
Apertures ¨ 512c
Adjustment Member¨ Adjustment Member- Protrusion 514c
600a 600b Opening ¨ 516c
Protrusions ¨ 610a Extending member ¨
Fastening Portion - 620a 518c
Hot Seat Member ¨ 550c
Thermostatic Element ¨ Thermostatic Elements - Seating Portion ¨ 560c
700a 700b Apertures ¨ 562c
Pin - 710a Protrusion ¨ 564c
Overtravel Spring - 800b Opening ¨ 566c
Overtravel Spring ¨ 800a Extending member ¨
568c
Seat ¨ 900a
Outlet Fitting - 1000 Adjustment Member ¨
600c
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
CA 03093333 2020-09-08
WO 2019/169453
PCT/AU2019/050209
- 22 -
Embodiment #1 Embodiment #2 Embodiment #3
Thermostatic Elements ¨
700c
Overtravel Spring ¨ 800c
Adjusting Seat ¨ 900c
Date Recue/Date Received 2020-09-09
